Real Madrid thrashes Real Betis silly

 Gareth Bale and James Rodriguez both scored twice and Real Madrid goalkeeper Keylor Navas saved a penalty as Rafa Benitez’s side thrashed Real Betis.

Navas’ name echoed around the Santiago Bernabeu after one fine first half save and even more loudly in the second half when he blocked Ruben Castro’s spot-kick.

Real Madrid could yet sign David de Gea before the window closes on Tuesday but it is clear that waiting for him to become a free agent next summer would not be a controversial decision – Navas has never been so popular.

With the Costan Rican keeper having his finest night since joining Real Madrid last summer and Bale back to his very best form it was also a night for comebacks.

Karim Benzema, who also scored, was back in the team, and so was Colombian midfielder James whose breathtaking brace was the highlight of the 5-0 demolition of Pepe Mel’s newly-promoted side.

The Colombian was the star of the show right from Real’s first goal when he sent a dipping cross into the area and Bale timed his run perfectly to send a stooping header from 10 yards out past the onrushing Betis keeper Antonio Adan.

There were 94 seconds on the clock making it the fastest goal of his Real Madrid career so far. 

Real Madrid could have doubled their lead several times before the half hour. Benzema nearly headed in a Ronaldo cross just failing to meet the centre, Toni Kroos sent a long shot just wide, and Adan had to stand up well to block a Ronaldo shot at his near post.

On 38 minutes it was 2-0 and it was James who got it taking the paint off Adan’s far post as he bent in a left-footed free-kick from the right-hand side of the penalty area after Ronaldo had been fouled by Francisco Molinero.

There was still time for Navas to save at the feet of Ruben Castro as Betis squandered their best chance of the first half. It was a significant moment as with Florentino Perez in the directors box pondering that big money move for De Gea, the Bernabeu crowd began to chant 'Keylor! Keylor!'.

It’s been a long time since supporters have united behind a Real keeper. The club could still move for De Gea but it’s clear there will be no supporter protests if they don’t.

See more pics...